New help point for Doncaster service personnel

A new group has been set up to help veterans and members of the armed forces by creating a one-stop support point.

The Armed Forces Steering Group’s aim is to develop simple user-friendly access to the information, guidance and support available to those people who are currently serving or have served in the armed forces.

Mayor Ros Jones has made it one of her key priorities and has appointed Coun Bob Johnson as Veteran’s Champion.

Coun Johnson, a former military engineer, said: “I am committed to bring the council, St Leger Homes and veteran specific and general support agencies together to focus their resources and support to ensure that nobody who has served in the military is disadvantaged in any way.”

The group will be chaired by local businessman Tony Ward and facilitated by the council.

Mr Ward, who served in the Army for 24 years and runs Force 10 Recruitment, a specialist ex-forces recruitment agency based in Doncaster, said: “Mayor Jones has shown a strong commitment to supporting our veterans when they return to our town. The steering group, led by the community and supported by both the council and the MoD, will focus initially on developing a user friendly website for current and ex-members of the military including reservists.

“Soldiers who balance a part-time career in the military with a normal civilian life, full time soldiers and veterans would really benefit from having a single access point for all locally provided services such as health, housing and job search support.”

The inaugural committee meeting will be held on July 15. Anyone wishing to raise any points can contact either Coun Johnson (bob.johnson@doncaster.gov.uk) or Tony Ward (tony@force10recruitment.co.uk).

Force 10 Recruitment will also be providing a stand at the Civic Square for Armed Forces Day on Saturday when people can raise any issues in person.